Keep Your Shoes Looking New (Even in January)

January is tough on shoes. Salt, slush, grit, and constant wear take a toll—especially on leather and suede. The good news? A little regular care and smart storage go a long way. You don’t need a complicated routine—just the right habits.

Here’s how we recommend caring for your shoes this winter (and beyond):

Clean First. Always.

Start with Shoe Rescue Wipes
Shoe Rescue Wipes are your everyday fix. Keep a pack in your car or bag and give your shoes a quick wipe when you get home. They remove salt residue, dirt, and grime before it has a chance to dry out or stain the leather. Think of them as damage control—fast, easy, and effective.

Refresh with Shoe Polish
Polish isn’t just about shine—it nourishes leather and helps restore color that fades from wear. Use it occasionally to bring life back to boots and shoes that are starting to look tired. A little goes a long way, and the payoff is immediate.

Protect with Mink Oil
Mink oil is ideal for leather boots and shoes that see a lot of winter weather. It conditions deeply and adds water resistance, helping prevent cracking and stiffness. Apply sparingly, let it absorb, and buff off any excess. This is especially important after exposure to snow or salt.

How You Store Your Shoes Matters More Than You Think

Clean shoes stored poorly won’t stay nice for long.

Boxes vs. Shelves

• Shelves are ideal if your space allows. Shoes can breathe, hold their shape better, and are easier to rotate.

• Original shoe boxes are fine—especially for off-season storage—but only if shoes are completely clean and dry first. Avoid plastic bins; they trap moisture.

Use Shoe Trees (Especially for Leather)
Cedar shoe trees help shoes keep their shape, absorb moisture, and reduce odor. They’re one of the easiest ways to extend the life of leather shoes and boots.

Boot Storage Tips
Don’t fold tall boots over—they’ll crease permanently. Store them upright using boot shapers or rolled towels to support the shaft.

Temperature & Environment: Yes, It Matters

Leather is skin--it's true. It reacts to its environment, and can degrade over time—escpecially with extreme temperature changes.

• Avoid heat (radiators, basements near furnaces, hot garages). Heat dries leather out and leads to cracking.

• Avoid damp spaces. Moisture encourages mold and mildew.

• Best option: a cool, dry closet with consistent temperature.

If you’re storing shoes long-term, add a breathable dust bag or even a small silica packet to help control moisture. We usually have extra silica packets in the stockroom—just ask the next time you visit!

The Bottom Line

Clean your shoes regularly. Condition the leather when needed. Store thoughtfully.
Quality shoes are an investment—and a little care protects that investment for years.

We carry Shoe Rescue Wipes, polish, and mink oil in-store, and we’re always happy to help you choose the right care routine for your specific shoes. If you’re unsure, ask. That’s what we’re here for!